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University System of Georgia Upgrades Statewide Communications Network

By Dian Schaffhauser

04/07/08

The University System of Georgia has deployed the ADVA Optical Networking Fiber Service Platform 3000RE optical transport system to expand its statewide communications network. PeachNet supports 60 University System of Georgia (USG) sites, as well as other government agencies, education institutions and public libraries in the state. The ADVA solution supports high-bandwidth research and online learning applications.

Greater bandwidth for collaborative research applications was the primary reason the USG upgraded its network. ADVA's optical networking platform is optimized for Ethernet data transport.

"The demand for PeachNet bandwidth is always increasing," said John Scoville, executive director, enterprise infrastructure services, with the USG. "It's critical that our colleges, universities and libraries constantly incorporate new technologies such as collaborative research connections, online courses, online databases and sophisticated business applications to provide a relevant educational experience and most effectively manage operations. At the same time, users beyond higher education are tapping into PeachNet to access services they previously could not afford."

With the completion of a third major phase of PeachNet development, the ADVA platform delivers services at speeds reaching 10 gigabits per second across a network now covering 2,400 miles. PeachNet also supports distance learning, including engineering classes with streaming video shared among participants in Georgia and California over Internet2's nationwide research and education backbone network.

PeachNet links Georgia's 35 state colleges and universities, five private higher- education institutions, two K-12 school systems, 350 public libraries and other agencies, including Blue Cross/Blue Shield and the state departments of audits and transportation.

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal and Campus Technology. She can be reached at dian@dischaffhauser.com or on Twitter @schaffhauser.